If you constantly find yourself running out of storage space for items like tools, and gardening equipment, or if you just want somewhere to relax in the summer, a garden shed is a great solution. And, if you have successfully completed any DIY projects in the past, you should easily be able to build one from scratch. But what do you need to build a garden shed, and do you need to consider anything before buying your blueprints? Keep reading for some ideas.

What Will Your Shed Be Used For?

Before you even think about building a garden shed, you need to have an idea of what your shed will be used for. Maybe you are planning to store garden equipment inside it, or maybe you want to turn it into a summer house that you can decorate with plants during the summer months. By planning ahead, you can buy a shed that is specifically suited to your needs. Does it need to be secure to protect your tools, or does it just need to be aesthetically pleasing?

Materials

Unless you are a skilled carpenter, you’ll need some shed plans and blueprints to be able to start your project. You can find these in hardware and DIY stores, as well as online at sites like Howtobuildashed.org/shed-plans. Your shed plans will provide you with a list of the equipment you need, as well as the information you’ll need to build the basic structure of your shed. If you want to build any extra additions in your shed, such as storage bins, wooden shelves, pull out drawers, wall cabinets, and/or a potting bench and table, you will also need blueprints for each of these.

Planning Permission

Although most garden sheds won’t require planning permission, it is always a good idea to check this out with your local authority. In general, though, as long as your shed is smaller than 30 sq metres x 4 metres high, you should be okay, so long as you do not live in a listed building or a conservation area. Your shed will also need to be placed at least a metre away from the boundary of your property to be legal.

Maintenance

It’s also important to consider the maintenance that your shed will require once it is fully built. It’s a good idea to paint it with a couple of coats of preservative once you’ve built it as this will lower the amount of maintenance that you need to do. There are a few different ones available, but it’s best to use one that is water based, especially if your shed is being used as a summer house, as this will help protect the colour of it for an extended amount of time.

Security

Finally, you’ll also want to consider shed security. If you are going to be storing power tools, or garden equipment in your shed, you’ll want it to be secure from thieves and children. There are a number of different security options for sheds, so research these before you begin building so you can have everything in place.